A children’s charity is urging parents to be “bold and brave” when speaking to their children about adult issues such as sexual abuse.

The NSPCC is highlighting the Underwear Rule - which teaches children important messages such as their body belongs to them.

Helen Westerman, campaigns manager for the charity said: “The idea of parents talking about children on how to stay safe often makes them feel very uncomfortable. “It is always difficult to bring adult issues into a child’s world, but young children really get the message if explained in a way they understand.

The charity is the Gazette’s official Christmas partner as it aims to help raise £600,000 for Childline to ensure no child’s call goes unanswered – currently only three out of four children get through.

Over Christmas the NSPCC will get a call from a child every 20 seconds and for some children it can be an especially lonely time.